This information will give you a general idea about the medications listed below. Only the most general side effects are included. Ask your doctor if you need to take any special precautions. Use each of these medications as recommended by your doctor, or according to the instructions provided. If you have further questions about usage or side effects, contact your doctor.

Medications may help to either prevent, reduce, or manage side effects. You can develop side effects from the treatment and/or from the cancer itself. Medications typically used are anti-nausea drugs, corticosteroids, painkillers, blood stem cell support, or pain relievers. Tell your doctor when you notice a new symptom. Ask if any of these medications are appropriate for you.

Over-the-Counter Medications

Prescription Medications

Antiemetics are given to help treat and or prevent nausea and vomiting that might be induced by
chemotherapy,
radiation therapy, or surgery.

Prochlorperazine can be taken by mouth, injection, or a suppository. Ondansetron and granisetron can be taken orally or as injections. Metoclopramide is usually given by injection.

Cannabinoids are the active chemicals in marijuana that affect the nervous system and immune system. Certain cannabinoids are used to treat chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting. Medical marijuana can be used in food, taken as a pill, or inhaled.

Corticosteroids help to minimize inflammation and to relieve pain due to inflammation. You may experience pain and inflammation for a variety of reasons, such as:

Bone pain from cancer that has spread to your bones

Edema (fluid build up in cells) caused by tumors or treatment

Possible side effects include:

Increased appetite

Indigestion

Nervousness or restlessness

Opioids

Hydrocodone

Methadone

Oxycodone and acetaminophen

Opioids act on the central nervous system to relieve pain. These drugs can be very effective. However, they must be used with great caution because they can be mentally and/or physically addicting. If you are going to take one of these drugs for a long period of time, your doctor will closely monitor you.

Percocet is a combination medication. A narcotic analgesic and acetaminophen used together may provide better pain relief than either medication used alone. In some cases, lower doses of each medication are necessary to achieve pain relief.

Epoetin helps your bone marrow to make new red blood cells. Low red blood cell levels can lead to
anemia. Therefore, epoetin helps reduce your risk of anemia. Epoetin is quite effective, but it has a two-week delay between the injection and when your red blood cell count really starts to come back. It is not used as a “quick fix” for a low red blood cell count; a
blood transfusion
is usually performed if you need to recover your red blood cell count more quickly.

Both filgrastim and epoetin are given by injection in your doctor's office.

Bisphosphonates that are taken by mouth should be taken on an empty stomach. Therefore, it is recommended that you take it first thing in the morning with a full glass of water, at least 30 minutes before eating, drinking, or taking other medications. To minimize side effects, remain in an upright position for at least 30 minutes after taking this medication.

Possible side effects include:

Heartburn

Nausea or vomiting

Diarrhea

Constipation

Over-the-Counter Medications

Pain Relievers

Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen is used to relieve pain. Unlike aspirin products, acetaminophen rarely causes stomach irritation or bleeding. However, people with liver disease or heavy alcohol consumption should avoid these drugs. Get your doctor's approval before using acetaminophen for more than a short time.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Aspirin

Ibuprofen

Naproxen

NSAIDs are used to relieve pain and inflammation. You may experience pain and inflammation for a variety of reasons, such as:

Bone pain from cancer that has spread to your bones

Edema (fluid build up in cells) caused by tumors or treatment

Common side effects include:

Stomach cramps, pain, or discomfort

Lighheadedness or drowsiness

Headache

Heartburn, indigestion, nausea, or vomiting

Special Considerations

If you are taking medications, follow these general guidelines:

Take the medication as directed. Do not change the amount or the schedule.

Ask what side effects could occur. Report them to your doctor.

Talk to your doctor before you stop taking any prescription medication.

Plan ahead for refills if you need them.

Do not share your prescription medication with anyone.

Medications can be dangerous when mixed. Talk to your doctor if you are taking more than one medication, including over-the-counter products and supplements.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.